Steps for correct ICD coding
Identify? all terms in the diagnosis
Locate? each main term in the Alphabetic Index.M
Refer? to any subterms indented under the main term.
Follow? cross-reference instructions if the needed code is not located under the first? main entry consulted.
Verify? the code in the Tabular List.
Read? and be guided by any instructional terms in the Tabular List.
Assign? codes to the highest level of specificity.